How To Catch Suspended Bass

How to Catch Suspended Bass: Techniques and Strategies for Success

Catching suspended bass requires a different approach than targeting bass that are feeding on the bottom. Suspended bass are often found in the water column, neither near the surface nor the bottom, making them a challenging but rewarding target. This guide will equip you with the knowledge and techniques to successfully target these elusive fish.

Understanding Suspended Bass Behavior

Before diving into techniques, it's crucial to understand why bass suspend. Several factors influence their behavior:

• Thermocline: A layer of water with a significant temperature change can concentrate baitfish and, consequently, bass. Bass will suspend within this thermocline to ambush prey.
• Oxygen Levels: In stratified lakes, oxygen levels can vary significantly throughout the water column. Suspended bass may be seeking areas with optimal oxygen content.
• Baitfish Activity: Schools of baitfish are a primary reason for bass suspension. They'll position themselves to ambush unsuspecting prey.
• Structure: Bass often suspend near structure like docks, submerged trees, or weed lines. This provides cover and ambush points.

Key Techniques for Targeting Suspended Bass

Successfully catching suspended bass hinges on presentation and lure selection. Here are some highly effective techniques:

1. Targeting with finesse:

• Lightweight finesse jigs: These subtly imitate baitfish and allow for a slow, natural presentation. A small jig head with a soft plastic trailer is ideal.
• Drop-shot rigs: This rig keeps the bait suspended at the desired depth, allowing for enticing action with subtle twitches and pauses. Experiment with various depths to find where the bass are holding.
• Shaky heads: Similar to drop-shots, shaky heads offer a subtle, erratic action that triggers strikes.

2. Utilizing Reaction Baits:

While finesse is often key, sometimes a more aggressive approach is necessary:

• Small crankbaits: Shallow-diving crankbaits can effectively target suspended bass near the surface, especially if baitfish are actively feeding.
• Small spinnerbaits: These lures create vibrations and flashes that attract attention from suspended bass. Experiment with different blade sizes and colors.
• Small swimbaits: These mimic baitfish movements and can be highly effective in triggering strikes from suspended bass.

3. Mastering the Art of Presentation:

• Slow and steady: Avoid overly aggressive retrieves. Slow, controlled movements are usually more effective for triggering bites from suspended bass.
• Precise Depth Control: Pay close attention to your lure's depth. Use different techniques and equipment to target the precise depth where the bass are located.
• Pauses and Twitches: Incorporate pauses and subtle twitches into your retrieve to trigger reaction strikes.

Essential Gear for Suspended Bass Fishing

• Sensitive Rod: A lightweight, sensitive rod is essential for detecting subtle bites.
• High-Quality Reel: A smooth-dragging reel will help you set the hook effectively.
• Fluorocarbon Line: Fluorocarbon line is virtually invisible underwater and is highly sensitive.
• Variety of Lures: Experiment with different lures to find what works best in specific situations.

Location, Location, Location

Finding suspended bass often involves identifying key areas:

• Deep water with structure: Focus on areas with submerged trees, rocks, or other cover in deeper water.
• Points and shorelines: Look for points and shorelines with drop-offs where bass can easily ambush prey.
• Use your electronics: A fish finder can help you locate schools of baitfish and identify areas where bass are suspended.

By understanding bass behavior, mastering the right techniques, and utilizing the correct gear, you can significantly increase your chances of catching those challenging suspended bass. Remember to practice patience and persistence—it's often a rewarding process to land these elusive game fish!